Family: Fabaceae
Origin, Description & Uses:
Gossypium barbadense, known as sea island cotton or American pima cotton, is native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This cotton species is valued for its long, silky fibers, which are stronger and finer than most other cottons. The plant grows as a bushy shrub with yellow or cream-colored flowers that develop into cotton bolls. It is cultivated for high-quality textiles, including luxury fabrics, bedding, and clothing.
Risks & Threats:
Gossypium barbadense is naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands on Ni`ihau, Kaua`i, O`ahu, Moloka`i, Lana`i, Hawai`i. While it is mainly cultivated for its fiber, it has traits that could allow it to spread beyond managed areas. Its presence may compete with native plants and alter local habitats. Careful monitoring and management are recommended to prevent further ecological impacts.
High Risk Traits:
- Naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands
- Naturalized in Australia
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Seeds may be toxic to animals
- Tolerates many soil conditions (and potentially able to exploit many different habitat types)
- Host of pests and pathogens
- Capable of hybridization with other Gossypium species including G. tomentosum
- A facultative self-pollinator
- May reach reproductive maturity in less than 1 year
- Seeds dispersed accidentally along roads, by wind, possibly water and by passage through cattle, among other vectors
- May be able to resprout following cutting
Low Risk Traits:
- Despite ability to spread, evidence of negative impacts are generally not reported or unspecified
- Palatable
- Non-toxic foliage (although seeds may be toxic)
- Shade-intolerant
- Important commercial crop
- Seeds apparently do not persist in the soil
